The 2009 Toyota Prius, part of the second generation (2004-2009), is a 5-door hatchback hybrid. It gained popularity for its exceptional fuel economy and eco-friendly image. Key trims included the base model and option packages adding features like leather seats and navigation. Pricing ranged from around $22,000 new. Its hybrid powertrain and distinctive design made it stand out, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
The Good
The 2009 Prius offers exceptional fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking to save money on gas. Its proven reliability provides peace of mind. The comfortable ride and distinctive design attract those valuing a smooth, eco-conscious driving experience. It represents good value due to its longevity and fuel savings, satisfying both emotional and financial needs.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2009 Prius include potential battery degradation over time, leading to reduced fuel economy and eventual replacement costs. The regenerative braking system can feel different from traditional brakes, requiring an adjustment period. The interior materials can feel somewhat cheap, and some owners have reported issues with the multi-information display.
2009 Toyota Prius: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.5L 4-cylinder gasoline engine with Hybrid Synergy Drive system
- Horsepower: 110 hp (combined gas and electric)
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 48 mpg city / 45 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Around 10.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base Model: Includes standard features like keyless entry, automatic climate control, and a basic audio system.
- Package #2: Adds cruise control, a rear window wiper, and upgraded audio.
- Package #3: Includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), side curtain airbags, and an anti-theft system.
- Package #5: Features leather seats, heated front seats, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
- Package #6: Incorporates a navigation system and JBL premium audio.
- Solar Roof Package: An available option which uses solar panels on the roof to power a ventilation system to keep the cabin cooler while parked.
2009 Toyota Prius Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Prius |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Door |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | KARIYA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1329.93 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 149.1 cm |
| Overall Length | 444.5 cm |
| Overall Width | 172.47 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 270 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.5-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 1.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | Continuously Variable |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel |
| Steering Type | Power Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $24,270 USD |
| Invoice Price | $22,519 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $750 USD |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Toyota Prius Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2009 Toyota Prius include issues with the hybrid battery pack. Battery degradation is common over time, leading to reduced fuel economy and eventual replacement. The inverter, a crucial component of the hybrid system, has also been known to fail in some cases. Another common issue is excessive oil consumption, especially in higher-mileage vehicles.
Recalls for the 2009 Prius have included issues related to the brake system. A recall was issued for potential problems with the brake actuator assembly, which could lead to reduced braking performance. There have also been recalls concerning the steering shaft extension, which could potentially detach and affect steering control.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the longevity of the hybrid battery. While many Prius owners have achieved high mileage without major issues, the battery's lifespan is finite, and replacement can be costly. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and hybrid system checks, is crucial for maximizing the vehicle's lifespan. Some owners have also reported issues with the combination meter (instrument cluster) failing.
Recalls for the 2009 Prius have included issues related to the brake system. A recall was issued for potential problems with the brake actuator assembly, which could lead to reduced braking performance. There have also been recalls concerning the steering shaft extension, which could potentially detach and affect steering control.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the longevity of the hybrid battery. While many Prius owners have achieved high mileage without major issues, the battery's lifespan is finite, and replacement can be costly. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and hybrid system checks, is crucial for maximizing the vehicle's lifespan. Some owners have also reported issues with the combination meter (instrument cluster) failing.
How long will the 2009 Toyota Prius last?
The 2009 Toyota Prius, with proper maintenance, can often reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding this milestone. Years of service can easily extend beyond 10-15 years with good maintenance habits. Long-term durability is generally good, but the hybrid battery is a key factor. Battery degradation is a natural process, and performance will gradually decline over time. Neglecting regular maintenance, such as oil changes and coolant flushes, can accelerate wear and tear on the engine and hybrid system components, impacting longevity.
Positive Owner Reviews
Buzz
The Prius is comfortable and had a surprising amount of room for others. We like the fuel economy as well. It also has a bit more power than I thought a hybrid would have.
Lcart
I drove this car for many years because of the reliability and excellent gas mileage. I really enjoyed the interior space as well. I would and have recommend this car to friends. A good car for someone looking for a safe car that’s still fun to drive.
Albert
Will meet all of ones needs and a pleasure to own and drive, unbelievably economical and reliable. Drives smoothly and a great ride. Alloy wheels- Very comfortable microfiber clean seats.
Negative Owner Reviews
carman
I must admit that I'm a bit spoiled after having driven Audis, Volvos and Acuras for my last three vehicles, so in comparison, the Prius does feel a bit chincy. I have the top-of-the-line "Touring" package with Nav, Backup Camera, Bluetooth, Voice Command, Xenon Headlights, Leather, JBL Upgraded Sound System etc..., but for a car that cost what a one year old used BMW 3-Series would go for, I am disappointed in the quality of the leather used, as well as the fact that on this model you don't get heated seats or power seats (I know...spoiled...what a hardship). The "upgraded" Touring package rims have plastic hubcap-like covers over them. The car is tremendously noisy at highway speeds (tons of road roar), the car does not handle very crisply and most diappointing of all is, that even if you drive fairly conservatively I have not been able to get anywhere near the 48 MPG that is claimed on the window sticker (I have gotten about 41 MPG max in a combo of city and hwy driving).
PMO
I have a 1 month old 2009 Prius with 914 miles and have cunsummed 28.6 gallons of gas, giving me only 32 mpg. During this time I took two 150 mile trips, and the rest of the time mostly commuting. I have a 3.2 mile commute to work that takes 12-15 minutes. Temperatures have been in the 20s to 40s. On my last tank of gas, only commuting, I only got 25.2 mpg. On a 150 mile highway trip with cruise control set to 65 I got 40.2 MPG. What is wrong with this picture?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Toyota Prius comes standard with features such as keyless entry, automatic climate control, and a multi-information display showing fuel economy and hybrid system information. Entertainment features include a CD player with MP3 playback capability and an auxiliary audio input. Optional features include a JBL premium audio system and a navigation system with a touchscreen display.
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles. Some trims include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control. A rearview camera was not a standard feature but available as part of an option package. Safety features include standard front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags on higher trims.
The 2009 Prius received good crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it five stars in frontal and side-impact crash tests. IIHS gave the Prius a "Good" rating in frontal offset and side-impact crash tests. However, it's important to remember that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2009, so newer vehicles may offer superior protection in a crash.
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles. Some trims include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control. A rearview camera was not a standard feature but available as part of an option package. Safety features include standard front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags on higher trims.
The 2009 Prius received good crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it five stars in frontal and side-impact crash tests. IIHS gave the Prius a "Good" rating in frontal offset and side-impact crash tests. However, it's important to remember that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2009, so newer vehicles may offer superior protection in a crash.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black
Silver Metallic
White
Blue Ribbon Metallic
Barcelona Red Metallic
Tidal Wave Pearl
Super White
Interior Colors
Gray
Bisque
2009 Toyota Prius Prices and Market Value
The 2009 Toyota Prius had a starting MSRP of around $22,000 when new. Currently, used market prices typically range from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Prius has depreciated significantly, but its reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency has helped it retain some value. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the hybrid battery, overall mechanical health, and cosmetic appearance. Higher mileage and signs of neglect will negatively impact the price.
2009 Toyota Prius Cost of Ownership
The 2009 Toyota Prius is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel costs are very low due to its exceptional fuel economy. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is relatively affordable. However, potential repairs to the hybrid system, especially battery replacement, can be expensive. Overall, the Prius offers significant long-term savings due to its fuel efficiency, outweighing potential repair costs if well-maintained.
2009 Toyota Prius Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Fuel Capacity
19.06 liters
City Mileage
2.08 km/l
Highway Mileage
2.21 km/l
2009 Toyota Prius Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2009 Toyota Prius Recalls & Defects
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date
2009-10-05
Recall no.
09v388000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2010 Passenger Vehicles. THE Accelerator Pedal CAN GET Stuck IN THE Wide Open Position DUE TO ITS Being Trapped BY AN Unsecured or Incompatible Driver's Floor Mat.
Consequence
A Stuck Open Accelerator Pedal MAY Result IN Very High Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop THE Vehicle, Which Could Cause A Crash, Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Toyota Filed AN Amended Defect Report ON November 25, 2009, Stating That Dealers Will Modify THE Accelerator Pedal And, ON Certain Vehicles, Alter THE Shape OF THE Floor Surface Under THE Pedal. These Changes Address THE Risk OF Pedal Entrapment DUE TO Interference With THE Floor Mat. Redesigned Accelerator Pedals Will Become Available Beginning IN April 2010 and Dealers Will Replace ANY Modified Pedal With THE NEW Pedal IF Desired. Also, Dealers Will Replace ANY Genuine Toyota or Lexus All-Weather Floor Mats With Redesigned All-Weather Mats, or Repurchase THE Previous Mats From Owners WHO DO NOT Want THE NEW Ones. Additionally, Software Modifications Will BE Installed ON Camry, Avalon and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 Models That Will Ensure That THE Brake Overrides THE Accelerator IN THE Event Both Brake and Accelerator Pedals ARE Applied. Toyota Will Begin Mailing Letters TO Owners ON December 31, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331, Lexus AT 1-800-255-3987.
Notes
Toyota Recall NO. 90l/90lg.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2010-02-03
Recall no.
10v036000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Passenger Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence
A Driver MAY Overload A Vehicle Which MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2010-02-03
Recall no.
10v035000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Gulf States Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Between September 1, 2005 and June 2, 2008 Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence
This Does NOT Meet THE Standard Requirements.
Remedy
Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. Dealers Will Also Correct THE Owner's Manual. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Gulf States Toyota AT 713-580-3300.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Steering
Recall date
2012-11-14
Recall no.
12v537000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2009 Prius Vehicles Manufactured August 5, 2003, Through March 30, 2009. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Steering Intermediate Extension Shaft Assembly Built With Metal Splines That Complete THE Connection From THE Steering Wheel TO THE Steering Gear. These Splines MAY Have Been Manufactured With AN Insufficient Hardness.
Consequence
Over Time, THE Splines MAY Wear and Eventually Fail Resulting IN A Loss OF Steering Ability, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Extension Shaft and Replace IT IF IT IS ONE With Insufficient Hardness, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began During December 2012. Owners MAY Contact Their Toyota Dealer or THE Toyota Customer Experience Center AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:gear Box:shaft Sector
Recall date
2012-11-14
Recall no.
12v537000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2009 Prius Vehicles Manufactured August 5, 2003, Through March 30, 2009. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Steering Intermediate Extension Shaft Assembly Built With Metal Splines That Complete THE Connection From THE Steering Wheel TO THE Steering Gear. These Splines MAY Have Been Manufactured With AN Insufficient Hardness.
Consequence
Over Time, THE Splines MAY Wear and Eventually Fail Resulting IN A Loss OF Steering Ability, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Extension Shaft and Replace IT IF IT IS ONE With Insufficient Hardness, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began During December 2012. Owners MAY Contact Their Toyota Dealer or THE Toyota Customer Experience Center AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date
2012-11-14
Recall no.
12v536000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2009 Prius Vehicles Manufactured August 6, 2003, Through March 30, 2009 and Fchv-Adv Vehicles Manufactured December 12, 2008, Through September 13, 2011. During Manufacturing, A Scratch MAY Have Occurred Inside OF THE Electrically Driven Water Pump AT THE Coil Wire. THE Coil Wire MAY Corrode AT THE Scratched Portion.
Consequence
THE Corroded Coil Wire MAY Break and THE Water Pump Could Stop. THE Corroded Coil Wire Could Cause A Short Circuit Between Coil Wires and A Possible Open Fuse, Creating A Stall-Like Condition OF THE Hybrid System While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven. This MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify ITS Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Electric Water Pump, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 17, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Their Toyota Dealer or THE Toyota Customer Experience Center AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid Propulsion System: Inverter
Recall date
2012-11-14
Recall no.
12v536000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2009 Prius Vehicles Manufactured August 6, 2003, Through March 30, 2009 and Fchv-Adv Vehicles Manufactured December 12, 2008, Through September 13, 2011. During Manufacturing, A Scratch MAY Have Occurred Inside OF THE Electrically Driven Water Pump AT THE Coil Wire. THE Coil Wire MAY Corrode AT THE Scratched Portion.
Consequence
THE Corroded Coil Wire MAY Break and THE Water Pump Could Stop. THE Corroded Coil Wire Could Cause A Short Circuit Between Coil Wires and A Possible Open Fuse, Creating A Stall-Like Condition OF THE Hybrid System While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven. This MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify ITS Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Electric Water Pump, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 17, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Their Toyota Dealer or THE Toyota Customer Experience Center AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2009 Toyota Prius Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Toyota Prius Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Toyota Prius is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Toyota Prius Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2009 Toyota Prius competed with other fuel-efficient cars like the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Ford Fusion Hybrid. In terms of fuel economy, the Prius typically outperformed both. The Civic Hybrid offered a sportier driving experience but lower fuel economy. The Fusion Hybrid provided a more conventional driving experience and a larger interior but was also less fuel-efficient than the Prius.
In terms of reliability, the Prius generally has a strong reputation, comparable to the Civic Hybrid. The Ford Fusion Hybrid had a slightly lower reliability rating. Feature-wise, the Prius offered a good balance, although the Civic Hybrid provided a slightly more engaging driving experience. The Prius was often priced competitively within its class.
Alternatives to the 2009 Prius include the 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid for those prioritizing a sportier feel, or a slightly newer Toyota Prius (2010+) for improved features and potentially better battery condition. If fuel economy isn't the top priority, a non-hybrid Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be suitable options, offering similar reliability at a lower price point.
In terms of reliability, the Prius generally has a strong reputation, comparable to the Civic Hybrid. The Ford Fusion Hybrid had a slightly lower reliability rating. Feature-wise, the Prius offered a good balance, although the Civic Hybrid provided a slightly more engaging driving experience. The Prius was often priced competitively within its class.
Alternatives to the 2009 Prius include the 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid for those prioritizing a sportier feel, or a slightly newer Toyota Prius (2010+) for improved features and potentially better battery condition. If fuel economy isn't the top priority, a non-hybrid Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be suitable options, offering similar reliability at a lower price point.
Ranks #30 Hatchback
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | (1.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 BMW i4 | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2016 Ford Focus Electric | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | (4.0★) |
| 9 | 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Jaguar I-PACE | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Tesla Model S | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2022 Porsche Panamera | (0.0★) |
| 30 | 2009 Toyota Prius | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Toyota Prius a Good Sedan?
The 2009 Toyota Prius is ideal for budget-conscious individuals seeking excellent fuel economy and a reliable commuter car. It's worth buying used if you find a well-maintained model with a healthy hybrid battery. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is crucial to assess the battery's condition and identify any potential issues. Lower mileage examples with comprehensive service records are preferable. Avoid models with a history of neglect or significant hybrid system problems. If battery replacement is needed, factor that cost into your decision.
Buzz on November 3, 2020
Reliable Toyota PriusThe Prius is comfortable and had a surprising amount of room for others. We like the fuel economy as well. It also has a bit more power than I thought a hybrid would have.
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Josh on June 8, 2020
Great transportation on a budget.Great economical option, well equipped and comfortable to drive. Seats are comfortable and all controls are clear to navigate and use. Very clean and vehicles hold their value well.
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Lcart on May 20, 2020
Very reliable and safeI drove this car for many years because of the reliability and excellent gas mileage. I really enjoyed the interior space as well. I would and have recommend this car to friends. A good car for someone looking for a safe car that’s still fun to drive.
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Albert on April 17, 2020
Reliable- Economical- Practical- Spacious-Will meet all of ones needs and a pleasure to own and drive, unbelievably economical and reliable. Drives smoothly and a great ride. Alloy wheels- Very comfortable microfiber clean seats.
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David on April 4, 2020
252,000 milesThis car was used to haul deed for my farm, drive every day close to 200 miles, and excellent in the snow in upstate New York. The only reason I had to take it off the road, what is the rust that caused damage which at 252,000 miles is not worth fixing. The car still runs but won’t pass inspection. I’m sad I had to get another car.This car could easily make it past 300,000!
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Beckyjomo on February 23, 2020
Has everything you need.Gets Great mileage, backup camera, clean, smooth drive, nonsmokers, up to date maintenance, good tires, 2 fobs, can't lock keys in car, navigation, good leg room.
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JUPOSAY on November 8, 2019
very economical car to drive.this car was originally purchased when the price of gasoline was around $4.00 per gal.It is a noi frills very reliable and economic car.car has never been to the repair shop
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Froglady on September 30, 2019
I wish I could give higher than five stars!I bought my Prius because of the great city mileage, since I worked. But I ended up 'being retired' in 2009 due to the economy. Since then, I've been volunteer gleaning for Harvesters. I found my 'city car' has been a great farm wagon as well! I've driven over rutty roads and sometime no roads at all and my "Peggy Prius" takes it all in stride. It's a really great car. And the amount of produce it will hold astounds people!
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Mary and Abbie on September 3, 2019
Excellent car, great MPG! Our third Prius.I love its combination of cutting-edge technology, excellent gas mileage (around 45 mpg), benefits to our environment, performance, dependability, and zippy style. It runs beautifully. I'm selling it because it's my daughter's car, she's moved overseas, and I have my own Prius to drive.
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Snowbird on June 27, 2019
Unbelievable space for a small carThis car was everything we needed in a car. Great mileage of course, but fabulous space for hauling stuff. Who needs a truck? We once got a 45†round glass table top in the 44†door! Reliable, roomy for 4 passengers, okay for 5
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Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.